1. On January 18, 1865, the Missouri Constitutional Convention met in St. Louis to adopt a new state constitution that abolished slavery and established educational opportunities for all citizens. This was a significant moment in Missouri history, as it marked the end of slavery in the state and signaled a move towards greater social equality.

2. In 1837, the Missouri State Legislature passed an act establishing the University of Missouri, which is now one of the state's flagship institutions of higher education. Today, the University of Missouri system consists of four campuses across the state and is one of the largest employers in the state.

3. On January 18, 1887, the Missouri State Board of Agriculture held its first annual meeting in Columbia, Missouri. The board was responsible for promoting agriculture in the state and overseeing various agricultural-related programs and initiatives.

4. In 1919, the first commercial flight in Missouri took off from St. Louis. The flight was operated by the Robertson Aircraft Corporation and traveled from St. Louis to Chicago, marking a major milestone in the development of commercial aviation in the state.

5. On January 18, 1943, the U.S. Army activated the 4th Armored Division at Camp Bowie in Texas. The division would go on to serve in various campaigns throughout World War II, including the Normandy invasion and the Battle of the Bulge. Many soldiers from Missouri served in the 4th Armored Division, and the division's flag still flies at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans as a tribute to its service and sacrifice.